Men Suffer from Depression, Too

                  June is Men’s Mental Health Month. I thought I would attempt to bring awareness to the fact that men suffer from depression, too. Stigma is hard for everyone living with depression. I think there are societal ideals that add to that stigma for men. Obviously, I can’t speak from experience in this area, but I can speak from a place of empathy.

                  Men get depressed. Men have emotions. How many of us grew up hearing boys being told that boys don’t cry or heard a boy told to man up? I can only imagine the pain and confusion that caused for the boys. Why were they being told to hide their emotions? Why didn’t their emotions matter? These boys grew up with those messages in their head. It makes sense that given those messages, acknowledging depression would be difficult for them.

                  Men need to know that they can reach out for help when they are living with depression. They don’t have to be strong all the time. Their emotions are legitimate. Men deserve and are entitled to mental health care. It can make a difference in their lives.

                  According to the National Institute of Mental Health 18.1% of males live with some form of mental illness. That number is significant and warrants addressing. Studies show that men are less likely to get help for a mental illness such as depression. We need do something to encourage men to get the help they need. This starts with reducing the stigma. We need to tear down the stereotype of the always strong, emotionless male. We all have emotions, male or female. Breaking down the stigma can begin by creating open spaces for people to express themselves. This can start by checking in on each other. Check in on your male friends and family members. When you do this make sure you really listen to their answers. Ask them questions. Encourage them to share rather than “man up”. 

                  Depression looks different in everyone. The man that is consumed with his work or the man that is taking risks in his social life, may be masking depression. You won’t know unless you sincerely ask, “How are you doing?” Give your make friends and family members space to share what they are feeling. 

                  It is also important that we ensure that boys know that it is okay to have feelings. It is okay to cry. There is no shame in shedding tears. Boys who are allowed to share their emotions will grow into men who can do the same.  

                  Mental healthcare is necessary for all people. Depression or other mental illnesses are not signs of weakness. They are illnesses that require treatment. Men deserve mental health treatment just like anyone else. So, let’s make a concerted effort to break down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.